Springfield pupils swap day for knight as part of medieval studies

Pupils at Springfield Primary School in Sunbury spent a day in the land of knights at the end of term when they enjoyed a medieval-themed day of entertainment as part of their year two history studies.

Teachers and pupils from Sunstone and Citrine classes entered into the spirit of the times, dressing up as princesses, knights, jesters and peasants for a day of historical study through role play and activities, including playing medieval board games, baking honey bread, and goblet making.

The highlight of the day was the visit of a medieval re-enactment visitor who brought in armour, chain mail and jousting equipment, and explained the finer points of jousting technique whilst also teaching the children medieval dances.

“This was certainly a school day with a difference, and one the children are sure to remember – which is, of course, the whole point,” said teacher Beth Donnelly, who organised the event. “If you’re not careful, it’s very easy for history to come across as something that’s entirely buried in the past, which can lead to pupils being turned off the subject. But to bring it to life in front of them like this has precisely the opposite effect, and makes them feel like it’s something living and breathing, which they can really relate to. I know they enjoyed the day, they’ve not stopped talking about it, so I think that means the day did exactly what we were hoping it would.”